The catchment of the Burpengary East Wastewater Treatment Plant is experiencing high growth, which is expected to continue, with the equivalent population it serves forecast to increase from approximately 52,000 at present, to 74,000 by 2026.
Scaling up treatment capacity from approximately 10 million to almost 14 million litres per day will support that growth while ensuring continued protection of the health of the Caboolture River.
Mike Basterfield, Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions at Unitywater, said this investment underscored a commitment to both environmental stewardship and community prosperity.
“By renewing the infrastructure and improving operational processes, we're not only meeting the needs of today, but also laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and development well into the future," Mr Basterfield said.
“Wastewater treatment plants are often the un-sung heroes of our community, not only recycling waste for the community, but playing an essential role in keeping our community healthy.”
“We commenced construction in May this year, following a comprehensive planning process, to ensure the delivery of the project in an economically and environmentally sustainable way. We expect the project to be complete by the end of 2026.”
Currently servicing the surrounding regions of Narangba, Burpengary, Beachmere, Burpengary East, Deception Bay and Morayfield, the Burpengary East Wastewater Treatment Plant was first commissioned in the 1970s.
Mr Basterfield said this will be the first major upgrade to the plant since 2012 and will touch on most components of the treatment process.
“New inlet works with enhanced odour control will increase flow capacity of the plant while helping reduce odour experienced by the local community,” Mr Basterfield said.
“A new bioreactor will enhance the efficiency of organic pollutant degradation, as microorganisms within the reactor break down the nutrients present in wastewater, improving the quality of treated water being returned to the environment.”
Work will also see a new clarifier constructed, disinfection systems enhanced, and electrical and control systems upgraded.
These upgrades will be facilitated by Unitywater’s contracted delivery partner Ventia, with up to 200 workers on site throughout the life of the project.
For more information on the Burpengary East Wastewater Treatment upgrades, visit the Unitywater website at: https://www.unitywater.com/burpengary-east-wwtp-upgrade
